Outdoor events abound as temperatures finally rise

Saturday

Apr 6, 2013 at 12:01 AM

Was that really sleet falling across Davidson County on Thursday? Doesn't the calendar say spring has arrived, when nature transitions from the cold, dormant days of winter to the growth and warmth of summer? But worry not, because as the old adage says, if you don't like the weather in North Carolina, just wait, and soon it will change. So temperatures began a climb Friday that should lead to figures in the mid-to-upper 70s by the middle of next week.

Was that really sleet falling across Davidson County on Thursday? Doesn't the calendar say spring has arrived, when nature transitions from the cold, dormant days of winter to the growth and warmth of summer? But worry not, because as the old adage says, if you don't like the weather in North Carolina, just wait, and soon it will change. So temperatures began a climb Friday that should lead to figures in the mid-to-upper 70s by the middle of next week.Spring signals many things — cleaning, gardening, yard sales, short sleeves and pants, flip flops and more. Many nonprofit agencies also schedule major fundraisers for April and May, and several highly popular events, such as Lexington's Multicultural Festival, also take place. So keep an eye on stories and calendar items in The Dispatch for opportunities to help an agency with a worthwhile cause or find an event that appeals to your interests. Take advantage of the nice weather and enjoy some fellowship with your neighbors.Adults need to avoid the temptation to allow small children to ride on tractors and lawn mowers. That happens regularly across Davidson County, and most times no accident occurs. However, the potential for tragedy always exists, a fact illustrated this week when a tractor driven by an 82-year-old man accompanied by his 2-year-old grandson collided with a dump truck. Thankfully, there were no life-threatening injuries, but the accident again points out the dangers of young children riding unrestrained on such vehicles. No matter how much a child wants to ride, adults must simply not allow it to happen.The death of Jeff Smith, the former director of Davidson County Emergency Services, came as a shock. Smith's health struggles were well-known and the reason he retired a month ago. But his 12-year battle with cancer ended Tuesday when he died at the Kate B. Reynolds Hospice House in Winston-Salem. Those who worked with him since he first began work as a paramedic in 1981 spoke glowingly of his dedication to county residents and his colleagues. He leaves behind a wife and two young children.Gaining necessary permits is about to became much easier thanks to a central permitting office in Davidson County. The one-stop shop will speed the process for contractors, builders and others who interact with the planning and zoning, environmental health and building inspections departments. It marks a positive step by county officials to offering better customer service and making the process easier for those in need of permits.